ATM security has changed significantly over the last decade. In 2026, ATM security risks extend far beyond physical theft. One of the most significant threats is outdated ATM software, unsupported hardware, and unprotected network communications. These vulnerabilities often go unnoticed until fraud or downtime occurs, and re often the source of infiltration.

For financial institutions and businesses that operate ATMs, maintaining strong ATM security requires awareness, proactive planning, and supported systems. At MVP Financial Equipment, we are committed to helping customers understand where risks exist, recognize early warning signs, and make informed decisions that support long term reliability and compliance.

This resource is for ATM owners to better understand modern security challenges and how to stay ahead of fraudsters.

This is for financial institutions and businesses that own or operate ATMs and want a clear, practical understanding of ATM security without unnecessary technical jargon.

This guide is especially helpful if you:

• Operate older or refurbished ATMs
• Are unsure whether your ATM software is still supported
• Have not recently reviewed ATM network security or encryption requirements
• Want to reduce ATM fraud risk without overhauling your entire environment

Software is the foundation of ATM security. Protected ATM operating systems receive ongoing security updates that address newly discovered vulnerabilities. When ATMs fall behind on updates or reach end-of-life status, those updates stop. This creates immediate warning flags.

Outdated ATM software can lead to:

• Unpatched vulnerabilities that fraudsters actively exploit
• Increased risk of ATM jackpotting attacks
• Greater exposure to man in the middle interception attempts

Industry wide transitions, such as the move from Windows 7 to Windows 10 and now toward Windows 11, have significantly improved ATM security standards. ATMs that cannot support current operating systems are increasingly difficult, and in some cases, impossible to secure.

Key takeaway: If an ATM can no longer receive software updates, it can no longer be fully secured.

ATM hardware and software security work together. When an ATM model reaches end of life, manufacturers discontinue support for both the hardware and the software. This limits the ability to apply security patches, firmware updates, and modern fraud prevention tools.

Unsupported ATM hardware may lack:

• Tamper resistant, deep insert card readers
• Anti skimming sensors that detect interference and shut down the ATM
• Components designed to support modern ATM security software

At MVP, refurbished ATMs are carefully selected and prepared to support modern security requirements. Refurbished does not mean outdated when equipment is properly supported and maintained. We provide machines that are compliant and able to secure with the latest software & tech.

Supported vs Vulnerable ATMs: A Simple Comparison

Supported ATMs typically have:

• A current operating system with active security updates
• Manufacturer supported hardware
• Modern ATM fraud prevention features
• Compatibility with encrypted host communications

Vulnerable ATMs often appear when:

• The operating system is no longer supported
• The ATM product line has reached end of life
• Security updates are no longer available
• Hardware cannot support modern ATM security standards

In addition to software and hardware, ATM security also depends on how the ATM communicates with its host. This communication path is commonly referred to as the ATM network.

Every ATM transaction travels across this network. When a customer inserts a card, the ATM sends a message to the host to verify the transaction and authorize cash to be dispensed. If this communication is not properly protected, it can be exploited.

What Is ATM Jackpotting?

ATM jackpotting is a type of fraud where criminals manipulate an ATM into dispensing cash without a legitimate withdrawal. Rather than targeting individual cardholders, these attacks target the ATM itself.

This often occurs through a man in the middle attack, where someone intercepts or alters messages between the ATM and the host. Machines with accessible top boxes or poorly protected connections are more likely to be targeted.

How Encryption Helps Prevent Jackpotting

To reduce this risk, NCR Atleos recommends encrypting ATM communications using Transport Layer Security, or TLS 1.2, at a minimum.

When encryption is properly configured and applied end to end:

• Messages between the ATM and host cannot be read or altered
• Fraudulent commands cannot be injected
• The risk of jackpotting is significantly reduced

Encryption is managed by the ATM host or network provider. MVP does not control customer networks; our role is to ensure ATM hardware and software support modern encryption standards and that required host provided files are properly loaded at the ATM.

While MVP is not a security firm, ATM security is a core part of responsible ATM ownership.

We help customers:

• Identify ATMs that are approaching or have reached end of life
• Understand how outdated ATM software and hardware increase risk
• Upgrade or replace ATMs before vulnerabilities become incidents
• Deploy refurbished ATMs that support modern security standards
• Maintain uptime while reducing operational and compliance risk

• If the ATM still works, it must still be secure
• Refurbished ATMs are automatically outdated
• ATM security risks are only physical
• Network security is fully handled by someone else

In reality, strong ATM security depends on supported systems, correct configuration, and proactive planning.

Are your ATMs still fully supported and secure today, or are they simply still operating?

If you are unsure, MVP Financial Equipment can help you evaluate your ATM environment and outline practical next steps custom fit to your budget and future plans.